Wentz returns as Eagles open against Redskins

The Philadelphia Eagles will welcome quarterback Carson Wentz back into the starting lineup when they host the Washington Redskins in the season opener for both teams on Sunday.Wentz was shut down with a stress fracture in his back for the final three regular-season games and two playoff games last year.The 26-year-old Wentz sat out the entire preseason but has repeatedly stated that he’s completely healthy heading into the 2019 season.”I think we’re all excited,” said Wentz, who recently signed a long-term contract extension. “You know, I think it’s been a long offseason as it always is. And you know, not fully having all the ones out there in the preseason, I think we’re all just really chomping at the bit to get out there Week 1 at the Linc (Lincoln Financial Field).”And I think everyone’s really excited because we know we have a lot of talent.”Eagles coach Doug Pederson doesn’t seem concerned that Wentz hasn’t played at all in the preseason.”I don’t believe in that,” Pederson said of easing Wentz into the game. “I don’t ease anybody in. I think you have to go in fully prepared. That’s why you go through training camp, especially at that position.”Wentz will have plenty of offensive weapons, led by Zach Ertz, who set an NFL record with 116 receptions by a tight end last season. The Eagles also brought back speedy wideout DeSean Jackson and traded for running back Jordan Howard.Jackson (finger), defensive tackle Fletcher Cox (foot) and cornerback Ronald Darby (knee) are all expected to play against the Redskins, though Pederson wouldn’t officially confirm it.The coach, however, is ultra-excited about beginning his fourth season.”It never gets old,” Pederson said. “Those emotions will never go away, and the passion and the desire and we have to keep it.”The Redskins will face a daunting challenge during the initial month of September, beginning with their annual trip to Philadelphia.